Cosmos Club

The Cosmos Club was founded in 1878 and "is a private social club, incorporated in Washington, D.C. in 1878 by men distinguished in science, literature and the arts. In June, 1988 the Club voted to welcome women as members.

"Since its founding, the Club has elected as members individuals in virtually every profession that has anything to do with scholarship, creative genius or intellectual distinction.

"Among its members, over the years, have been three Presidents, two Vice Presidents, a dozen Supreme Court justices, 32 Nobel Prize winners, 56 Pulitzer Prize winners and 45 recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom...

"A distinguishing feature of the Club is the great deal of effort spent by members in managing its affairs. More than 20 standing and special committees are appointed each year, involving some 350 members. Committee service provides a stimulating opportunity to benefit the Club and is often the route to elective office." [1]